Prep Guide

Hello Parents! In this prep guide I will be giving my tips and tricks for what I have found helps best when it comes time for newborn photos. I also want to remind parents this is just a guide and if things don't work out its okay. not everything will go right. you will not be able to follow all of these and to be honest, its baby day. We are on the baby's schedule!

Sleepy & Hungry

Babies do very well in the studio for posing when they are in a very deep sleep. To encourage this I highly recommend, stimulating the baby at least two hours before your scheduled arrival, a warm bath can do the trick. This also means keeping them awake during the car ride here. Refrain from feeding 2 hours before arrival as well. (If possible) Once you arrive you will feed your baby right away, once burped, we will then start preparing him/her and go straight into the session.

Feeding!

I highly recommend if you’re solely breastfeeding to pump and bottle feed your milk for your babies session. I’ve had mom’s that breastfeed for up to an hour and unfortunately that does delay the session quite a bit and does count against your allotted time coverage as well. If you don’t pump, my only alternative is to formula feed just for this session only. As a mother to 3 I’ve realized breastmilk doesn’t keep our babies fuller longer so choosing to formula feed for the session, will not only be a little easier for you but it will keep them asleep longer during the handling and posing for a scene. Moms, please just be advise, it’s just a recommendation so if you choose to do neither, its completely okay. As a newborn photographer, I just feel it’s my duty to offer any advice or tips that you as a parent can use to maximize the time we have in the studio and in return you’ll be able to showcase and display more than the average number of baby photos! ♥

Poop Whisperer!

That I have been called many times…lol but no worries, it happens! This is completely natural for babies to use blankets or props as there own personal potty. Please don’t feel embarrassed, I reassure you it happens more times that I can remember. Have a concern about sanitation? Don’t worry I wash all used props and blankets after each newborn session.

Shhh!

Please do whatever you can to keep the noise to a minimum during our session. Maintaining a calm environment is also a big key to a successful newborn shoot. If shooting with Toddlers I recommend bringing along a family member to have them take them home after the family portion. (with toddlers we do those 1st)

I do have a white noise Machine that I will keep close to baby during the session to help soothe him or her. Babies love strong and rhythmic sound. Don't forget it reminds them of the uterus!

Regulate the Temp!

Since babies are usually photographed close to naked, the studio will be set at a temperature of around 80F to ensure baby is warm and comfortable. If we’re not sweating, it’s probably not warm enough for baby! Parent’s please make sure to wear comfortable loose clothing.

Safety!

Safety is my utmost number one top priority when handling your baby, so either mom or dad can help or sometimes I will have a spotter/assistant. All eyes and hands are to be kept around baby during posing. During the session I will be handling and posing baby, but don’t worry I have plenty of experience handling a newborn (don’t know if I mentioned I have three baby’s of my own!) I will hold and care for him or her as if they were my own, I promise!

Parents

Chances are you’ll be here close to 3 to 4 hours so I highly recommend eating a good hearty breakfast before you arrive. I know this can be a very exciting and stressful time for you, especially when adding sleep deprivation in the mix! As much as my goal is for baby to be comfortable, I also want you to be comfortable and at ease! Having me photograph this precious moments for you, means a lot to me so anything I can do to make it a smooth journey for you, please don’t hesitate to let me know!